How to Stop Common Pet Bad Habits: Chewing, Barking & Scratching
Every pet parent knows the struggle: you turn your back for two minutes and suddenly the slippers are shredded, the cat’s scratching the couch again, or the dog has decided to bark at everything from passing cars to the fridge hum. These behaviours are normal - but that doesn’t mean they have to take over your home. Here’s a practical guide to understanding why pets do these things and how you can gently redirect them using positive, effective strategies.
Why Pets Display “Bad” Behaviours
Before correcting unwanted habits, it’s important to understand the root cause. Chewing, barking, and scratching are usually expressions of:
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Boredom or lack of mental stimulation
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Anxiety or stress
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Excess energy
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Natural instincts
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Medical discomfort (rare but possible)
Once you identify the cause, you can choose the right solution - and the right products - to support your pet’s needs.
1. How to Stop Excessive Chewing
Why Pets Chew
Dogs, especially puppies, chew to explore, soothe teething discomfort, or relieve boredom. Cats may chew due to stress or simply curiosity.
How to Prevent Chewing
Provide appropriate chew alternatives.
Offer sturdy chew toys, teething rings, or long-lasting treats. Rotating toys keeps things interesting.
Keep tempting items out of reach.
Shoes, cords, and children’s toys are prime targets - store them away when not in use.
Use deterrent sprays.
Pet-safe bitter sprays can discourage chewing on furniture or baseboards.
Increase mental stimulation.
Puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, and treat-dispensing toys help reduce boredom-driven chewing.
Exercise regularly.
A tired pet is a well-behaved pet.
2. How to Manage Persistent Barking
Why Dogs Bark
Barking is communication. Dogs may bark from excitement, alertness, fear, or lack of activity.
How to Reduce Barking
Identify the “trigger.”
Is it the post man? A neighbour’s dog? Loud noises? Once you know the trigger, you can train around it.
Teach “quiet” on cue.
When your dog stops barking - even for a second - reward with a treat. Gradually increase the quiet time before rewarding.
Limit what they can see.
Use window films or blinds if visual triggers cause barking.
Provide enrichment and exercise.
Many dogs bark more when they’re under-stimulated. Daily walks, fetch sessions, and puzzle toys help burn energy.
Consider calming products.
Calming chews, pheromone diffusers, and anxiety wraps can reduce stress-based barking.
3. How to Stop Cats from Scratching Furniture
Why Cats Scratch
Scratching is a natural feline behaviour. It helps them:
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Stretch their muscles
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Sharpen claws
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Mark territory
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Relieve stress
Instead of stopping the behaviour completely, the goal is to redirect it.
How to Prevent Furniture Scratching
Offer multiple scratching posts.
Provide both vertical and horizontal scratchers. Materials like sisal, cardboard, and wood appeal to different cats.
Place scratchers strategically.
Put them near furniture your cat targets, next to resting spots, and in social areas of the home.
Use catnip or silvervine.
Sprinkle some on the scratcher to encourage use.
Protect furniture during training.
Use furniture guards, double-sided tape, or washable slipcovers temporarily.
Keep claws trimmed.
Regular trimming reduces damage and the urge to scratch excessively.
Final Tips for Success
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Consistency is key - don’t reward bad habits one day and discourage them the next.
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Always use positive reinforcement, never punishment.
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Make sure your pet’s physical and emotional needs are met daily.
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Consult a veterinarian if sudden behaviour changes appear.
Ready to Help Your Pet Break Bad Habits?
Your pet isn’t misbehaving - they’re communicating. With patience, the right training strategies, and helpful products, you can guide them toward better habits while strengthening your bond.